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Case Study

Tingting Zhao

China

PhD Human Computer Interaction

Tingting Zhao's Chinese university had an exchange relationship with Sunderland and she thought it was a good opportunity for her to go abroad. She is now a Senior User Researcher in Government Digital Service and is currently leading research on the Digital Marketplace, which aims to make Government procurement easier, equal and transparent.

I didn’t have any particular career plan in my mind, but my module leader encouraged me to pursue a career in Human-Computer Interaction, which proved to be the perfect fit for me.

My lecturers were supportive and approachable. My English was rather poor when I joined the University of Sunderland, but the lecturers were patient and I never felt nervous about asking them questions. I also made lots of friends from different nationalities while I was studying here – and the wonderful beach and seafood are another added bonus for food lovers!

I’m now a Senior User Researcher in Government Digital Service. I’m currently leading research on the Digital Marketplace, which aims to make Government procurement easier, equal and transparent.

At Sunderland I learned to be resourceful – not to hesitate to ask for support, and to reach out to experts in my field."